Oil and filter change

Oil and Filter Change

Regular car oil change is essential to protect your engine and prevent costly damage. In most regions, an oil and filter change is recommended every 15,000 km or every 1–2 years, depending on your driving habits, vehicle type and manufacturer guidelines.

Oil Service at Bosch Car Service worldwide:

  • Oil filter replacement with Bosch oil filter
  • Environmentally responsible disposal of old engine oil
  • Service according to manufacturer specifications

Find your local BCS

FAQs | Oil Change

Regular car oil change is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your engine healthy.

These FAQs explain how oil changes work, how often they’re needed, and why professional service at Bosch Car Service helps protect your vehicle anywhere in the world.

Why is an oil change important?

Even if you don’t know much about cars, an oil change is one of the most important things to keep your engine healthy. Engine oil works like a protective layer inside your motor — it keeps everything running smoothly and prevents parts from wearing out.

Why oil changes matter (explained simply):

  • Oil keeps the engine clean: Over time, oil collects dirt and tiny metal particles. If it gets too dirty, the engine has to work harder.
  • Oil protects moving parts: Without fresh oil, metal parts rub against each other and can get damaged.
  • Oil keeps the engine cool: Old oil can’t control heat well, which can lead to overheating.
  • Avoiding expensive damage: Skipping oil changes can cause serious engine problems — sometimes even complete engine failure.

A regular car oil change is a small service that prevents very big repairs. Bosch Car Service uses high-quality Motul engine oil and Bosch oil filters to keep your engine protected — anywhere in the world.

What is done during an oil change?

A professional car oil change follows similar steps worldwide, but every Bosch Car Service workshop focuses on the essential tasks that protect your engine and keep your vehicle running smoothly. An oil service is one of the most important maintenance procedures, preventing wear, overheating and long-term engine damage.

What an oil change typically includes globally:

  • Draining old engine oil: Removing used oil so fresh lubricant can protect the engine properly.
  • Replacing the oil filter: Installing a new Bosch oil filter to ensure clean oil circulates through the engine.
  • Filling with new engine oil: Adding high-quality Motul engine oil or the oil type recommended by your manufacturer.
  • Checking key fluid levels: Inspecting coolant, brake fluid, transmission oil and more, depending on regional service standards.
  • Resetting service indicators: Updating the onboard system and documenting the service.
  • Environmentally responsible disposal: Safe and compliant disposal of used oil and filters.

Regular oil and filter change intervals help extend engine life, reduce fuel consumption and avoid costly repairs — no matter where in the world you drive. For expert service and the right oil for your vehicle, visit your nearest Bosch Car Service.

How often should I change my oil?

The ideal oil change interval varies worldwide and depends on your vehicle, engine type, driving habits and climate. In general, most manufacturers recommend a car oil change every 10,000–15,000 km (6,000–9,000 miles) or every 1–2 years — whichever comes first.

Global recommendations for oil change intervals:

  • Normal driving conditions:
    A regular oil and filter change once a year is usually sufficient.
  • High-mileage or long-distance drivers:
    More frequent oil changes — for example every 6 months — help protect the engine.
  • Short trips, city driving or extreme climates:
    Engines running in cold, hot, dusty or stop-and-go environments often need an earlier oil service.
  • Warning signs:
    Dashboard lights, unusual engine noises, or darker, thick oil indicate it’s time to change my oil immediately.

For accurate guidance, always check your manufacturer’s manual or ask a Bosch Car Service workshop. Using high-quality Motul engine oil and a Bosch oil filter ensures maximum engine protection and keeps your vehicle running smoothly — anywhere in the world.

How do I know my car needs an oil change?

If you’ve never performed a car oil change, there are clear signs your vehicle is telling you it’s time for one. Recognising these symptoms early helps protect your engine and avoid costly repairs.

  • Common signs you need an oil change:
    Engine sounds louder or rougher than usual: Over time, old oil loses its ability to lubricate properly, so you may hear more engine noise or feel rough starts.
  • Dashboard oil warning light appears: Many vehicles have an oil change or oil pressure warning — don’t ignore it.
  • Oil looks very dark or dirty: When you check under the hood, your oil should be slightly golden — if it’s dark or sludgy, it needs replacing.
  • Excessive exhaust smoke or fuel consumption: Worn oil can reduce efficiency and cause more visible emissions or higher fuel use.

Oil smell inside the car or hot engine smells: Sometimes old oil or leaks can cause noticeable smells or engine heat.

If you notice any of these symptoms, book a car maintenance or oil change at a Bosch Car Service workshop. Using the right quality oil and filter — such as Motul engine oil with a Bosch oil filter — ensures your car keeps running smoothly no matter where you drive.

How long does an oil change take?

In most countries, a standard car oil change usually takes 20 to 45 minutes. The exact time can vary depending on your vehicle and what needs to be checked or replaced. No matter where in the world you visit a Bosch Car Service, the process follows similar steps to ensure your engine gets fresh oil and a clean oil filter.

What can influence the duration?

  • Vehicle type: Larger engines or cars with tight engine bays can take longer.
  • Oil filter position: Easy-to-reach filters speed up the service; hidden filters need more time.
  • Additional checks: Some vehicles need a full oil and filter change, fluid checks or a service reset, which adds a few minutes.
  • Engine condition: If the old oil is very dirty or low, technicians may take extra time to inspect for engine wear.
  • Local service standards: Some regions include extra safety checks during an oil service, slightly extending the duration.

Wherever you are, a professional oil change at Bosch Car Service ensures clean oil, a new filter and a properly documented service — helping your engine stay healthy and efficient worldwide.